OREANDA-NEWS. August 01, 2016. Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Navdeep Bains, on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay, today announced an investment of \\$3.4 million to help AbCelex Technologies develop a new line of anti-microbial feed additives to help control disease outbreaks in poultry flocks.

The company is developing a line of innovative non-antibiotic, non-hormonal additives that are specifically targeted at Campylobacter and Salmonella, two of the most common food-borne bacteria that infect poultry. The new anti-microbials – called "nanobodies" – will result in healthier poultry and improve food safety.

Quick facts

  • AbCelex is a Canadian biotechnology company focused on developing livestock food additives that help improve animal health and food safety.
  • AAFC supports the development and adoption of industry-led initiatives regarding biosecurity and animal care to support the prudent use of antimicrobials. See link below.
  • This project will be conducted in collaboration with the International Vaccine Centre at the University of Saskatchewan, the University of Toronto and the Colorado Quality Research Inc.
  • Funding for this project comes from the AgriInnovation Program (Research and Development Stream) as part of the Growing Forward 2 agricultural policy framework.

Quotes

"Our Government is committed to positioning Canada as a global leader for innovation – one that creates well-paying jobs, drives growth across all industries and improves the lives of all Canadians. Today’s announcement is a prime example of that priority in action: these innovations will reduce the use of antibiotics and result in safer food, a healthier population and a more productive agricultural economy."

- Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development

"We are very appreciative to be a recipient of this important funding. With this visionary contribution and other strategic investments, AbCelex Technologies is well positioned to advance its platform technology and develop next-generation biological products needed for improved human health and a reduction in healthcare costs as a result of food contamination."

- Dr. Saeid Babaei, President & CEO of AbCelex Technologies